By LAFB Network,Ryan Anderson

Copyright yardbarker

Commanders: QB Jayden Daniels (questionable), Percy Butler (questionable), Noah Brown (questionable), John Bates (questionable).

Chargers: Joe Alt, Mekhi Becton.

Daniels’ status looms large. If he returns, Washington gains a dynamic rushing element that has caused defenses headaches early in the season.

Key Player to Watch: Justin Herbert

Quarterback Justin Herbert opened the year with precision—560 yards, five touchdowns, and zero interceptions in his first two outings. Since then, things have cooled. His completion percentage dipped below 60% the past two weeks, with just two touchdowns against three interceptions, including two costly giveaways against the Giants.

This matchup offers a get-right opportunity. Washington’s secondary has been generous, surrendering at least 289 passing yards and multiple scores in three straight games. If Herbert is sharp, his trio of receivers and rookie back Omarion Hampton give him the tools to put up points in bunches.

Why the Commanders Can Cover

Washington’s offensive line has been battered, yet Daniels’ potential return adds unpredictability. Before missing Week 4, the Commanders ranked third in rushing offense DVOA. Against a Chargers defense that just gave up 161 yards on the ground to the Giants, Daniels’ mobility could tilt things.

There’s also the matter of the Chargers’ health up front. Rookie tackle Joe Alt left last week’s game with an ankle injury, and Mekhi Becton is still nursing his own ailment. If both miss Sunday, Herbert may be forced into rushed throws—never ideal against a defense that thrives on opportunistic playmaking.

History also suggests trouble if Los Angeles allows points in bunches. Per Evan Abrams of The Action Network, Herbert is just 11-25 against the spread when his defense surrenders 24 or more points.

Why the Chargers Should Prevail